As of the 2010 census, a total of 165,084 civilians reside within Massachusetts' First Middlesex state senate district.[2] Massachusetts state senators represent an average of 163,691 residents.[3] After the 2000 Census, each member represented 158,727 residents.[4]

About the office

Qualifications

Article LXXI of the Massachusetts Constitution states: Every representative, for one year at least immediately preceding his election, shall have been an inhabitant of the district for which he is chosen and shall cease to represent such district when he shall cease to be an inhabitant of the commonwealth.

Salaries

As of 2013, members of the Massachusetts General Court are paid $61,133/year. Legislators receive between $10/day to $100/day per diem, depending on distance from the state house. Compensation is vouchered and set by the legislature.[5]

Vacancies

If there is a vacancy in the senate, a special election must be conducted to fill the vacant seat. The election must be held on the next regularly scheduled date on the election calendar.[6] Local governments who conduct special elections receive reimbursement from the State Treasurer's office for all costs incurred.[7]

2012

Elections for the office of Massachusetts State Senate consisted of a primary election on September 6, 2012 and a general election on November 6, 2012. The signature-filing deadline for candidates wishing to run in this election was May 29, 2012.[9] Incumbent Eileen Donoghue (D) defeated James Buba (R) in the general election. Both candidates were unopposed in the September 6 primary elections.[10][11]

Massachusetts State Senate, First Middlesex District, General Election, 2012

Party

Candidate

Vote %

Votes

Democratic

Eileen DonoghueIncumbent

71.2%

44,177

Republican

James Buba

28.8%

17,884

Total Votes

62,061

Campaign contributions

Since 2012, candidates for Massachusetts State Senate First Middlesex District have raised a total of $95,817. Candidates who raised money in contributions earned $47,909 on average. All figures come from Follow the Money.

Campaign contributions, Massachusetts State Senate First Middlesex District